Jewish Weddings
Tisch and Badeken
Ketubah Signing, Singing, and Snacking
Before the wedding ceremony, join us for the tisch, where we gather around a table for drinking, snacking, and singing. Here, we will sign our ketubah, which is the Jewish marriage contract; we have selected the egalitarian Aramaic text . Next, we will conduct a mutual badeken, during which Dave will veil Rachel and Rachel will put Dave's kitel (ceremonial robe) on him.
Chuppah
Wedding Ceremony
The Jewish wedding ceremony takes place under a chuppah, a canopy that is held by four poles and open on all four sides. Upon reaching the chuppah, Dave and Rachel will each circle one another three times, followed by walking in a circle together, for a total of seven circles. The first part of the ceremony, the Erusin (betrothal), includes a blessing over wine. Then, Dave and Rachel will exchange rings and recite a customary line to enact their marriage. The rings will be certified as whole circles by close friends. After the ring ceremony, a portion of the ketubah will be read aloud by Dave's childhood rabbi, Rabbi David Meyer. Following the reading, the Nissuin (nuptials) ceremony celebrates the new marriage. It includes the sheva brachot (seven blessings) recited by friends and family. Our officiant, Rabbi Josh Warshawsky, will then share some words. The ceremony will conclude with Dave and Rachel smashing a glass together.
Simcha Dancing and Schtick
Time to party!
Following cocktail hour, we will start the party with simach dancing, which is traditional Hebrew folk circle dancing. During this time, guests are invited to entertain the bride and groom with schtick, which includes prepared or improvised costumes, jokes, dances, and general goofiness.